Mark 15:27

KJV

And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} with {G4862} him {G846} they crucify {G4717} two {G1417} thieves {G3027}; the one {G1520} on {G1537} his right hand {G1188}, and {G2532} the other {G1520} on {G1537} his {G846} left {G2176}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On execution-stakes with him they placed two robbers, one on his right and one on his left.

Berean Standard Bible

Along with Jesus, they crucified two robbers, one on His right and one on His left.

American Standard Version

And with him they crucify two robbers; one on his right hand, and one on his left.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 15:27 profoundly details the setting of Jesus' crucifixion, noting His placement between two criminals. This seemingly simple statement carries immense theological and historical weight, underscoring the depth of His humiliation, His identification with humanity's sin, and the fulfillment of ancient prophecies, all within the brutal context of Roman execution.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at the climax of Mark's passion narrative. Immediately preceding it, Jesus has endured a brutal scourging, mocking by Roman soldiers who crown Him with thorns and dress Him in a purple robe, and the agonizing procession to Golgotha, the place of crucifixion (see [Mark 15:15-22](/mark/15-15-22 "Jesus' Scourging and Journey to Golgotha")). The narrative has meticulously built towards this moment of ultimate suffering. Following this verse, Mark describes the actual crucifixion, the mocking by passersby, and the darkness that covers the land, culminating in Jesus' death and the tearing of the temple veil (see [Mark 15:28-39](/mark/15-28-39 "The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus")). The placement of Jesus between the two criminals serves to heighten the visual impact and the theological significance of the crucifixion event itself.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Crucifixion was a particularly cruel and public form of execution employed by the Roman Empire, primarily reserved for slaves, rebels, and the most heinous criminals. It was designed not only to inflict maximum physical suffering but also to serve as a public deterrent, a stark warning against defying Roman authority. The condemned were often stripped naked, publicly shamed, and left to die slowly, sometimes over days. By crucifying Jesus alongside two "thieves" or "brigands," the Roman authorities intended to categorize Him among the vilest offenders, further disgracing Him and His movement in the eyes of the public. The act of crucifixion itself was a spectacle, and the specific placement of Jesus was a deliberate act of humiliation, associating Him with common criminals rather than a political or religious leader.

* **Key Themes:** The placement of Jesus between two criminals contributes significantly to several key themes in Mark's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores **Jesus' Humiliation and Identification with Sinners**. Though perfectly innocent, Jesus was treated as a common criminal, associating Himself with humanity's sin and guilt. This act of being "numbered with the transgressors" is a direct fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, specifically [Isaiah 53:12](/isaiah/53-12 "Isaiah 53:12 - Numbered with the Transgressors"). Secondly, it highlights the **Public Spectacle of Suffering**. The scene on Golgotha was a public execution, and the presence of two other condemned men intensified the grim reality of the event, emphasizing the severity of the Roman justice system and the public nature of Jesus' death. Finally, it subtly points to **Divine Purpose in Human Wickedness**. While the Roman and Jewish authorities intended to disgrace Jesus, His crucifixion, even in this ignominious setting, was part of God's sovereign plan for salvation. The stark contrast between His perfect innocence and His placement among the guilty highlights the radical nature of His atoning sacrifice, echoing the themes found throughout [Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **crucify (Greek, _stauróō'_):** From _stauros_ (a cross or stake), this verb means to impale on a cross. Figuratively, it can mean to extinguish or subdue passion or selfishness. In this context, it refers to the brutal Roman method of execution, emphasizing the physical agony and public shame inflicted upon Jesus and the two criminals.
* **thieves (Greek, _lēistḗs'_):** This term, derived from a word meaning "to plunder," refers to a brigand, robber, or even an insurrectionist. It implies more than a petty thief, often denoting violent criminals or rebels against authority. This choice of word highlights the perceived criminality of Jesus by the authorities, who sought to portray Him as a dangerous insurgent by associating Him with such individuals.
* **right hand (Greek, _dexiós'_):** From _dechomai_ (to receive), this refers to the right side or hand, often associated with honor, power, or a place of favor.
* **left (Greek, _euṓnymos'_):** From _eu_ (good) and _onoma_ (name), literally "well-named" or "good-omened." Ironically, among pagan Greeks, this was considered the lucky side, but in biblical and general cultural contexts, the left hand was often associated with lesser honor or even ill-omen. The contrast between the "right" and "left" emphasizes the specific, deliberate placement of Jesus, fulfilling prophecy and highlighting His position amidst the condemned.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And with him they crucify two thieves":** This clause immediately establishes the grim reality of the scene. "With him" underscores Jesus' shared fate with these criminals, a deliberate act by the Roman authorities to categorize Him among the vilest offenders. The term "thieves" (or "brigands") suggests these were serious, perhaps violent, criminals, not mere petty pilferers, further intensifying the humiliation intended for Jesus.
* **"the one on his right hand":** This specifies the position of one of the criminals. In ancient cultures, the right hand was often associated with honor, power, or a favored position. Here, it ironically places a criminal in a position that would normally signify closeness or importance, further highlighting Jesus' abasement.
* **"and the other on his left":** This completes the description of the arrangement, placing the second criminal on Jesus' left. The deliberate placement on either side of Jesus creates a symmetrical, yet deeply symbolic, tableau of His suffering and identification with the condemned.

#### Literary Devices
Mark 15:27 employs several potent literary devices. **Irony** is prominent, as Jesus, the innocent Son of God and rightful King, is crucified not only as a common criminal but specifically positioned between two actual criminals. This subverts expectations of justice and kingship. There is also profound **Symbolism** in Jesus' placement; by being "numbered with the transgressors," He symbolically takes on the place of humanity's sin, fulfilling prophetic imagery (e.g., [Isaiah 53:12](/isaiah/53-12 "Isaiah 53:12 - Numbered with the Transgressors")). The **Contrast** between Jesus' perfect innocence and the guilt of the criminals flanking Him serves to highlight the unique nature of His sacrifice. This scene also functions as **Foreshadowing** for the theological truth that Jesus died for sinners, a truth powerfully illustrated by the interaction with the penitent thief in Luke's Gospel (see [Luke 23:39-43](/luke/23-39-43 "The Penitent Thief")).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 15:27 is profoundly significant in its theological implications, primarily emphasizing Jesus' identification with humanity's fallen state and His role as the Suffering Servant. By being crucified between two criminals, Jesus willingly embraced the deepest level of human degradation and shame, not because of His own sin, but as a substitute for the sins of the world. This act underscores the scandalous nature of the cross, where the sinless Son of God was counted among the wicked, bearing the full weight of divine judgment against sin. This scene is a vivid illustration of God's redemptive plan, where the ultimate act of humiliation becomes the means of ultimate salvation.

* [Isaiah 53:12](/isaiah/53-12 "Isaiah 53:12 - The Suffering Servant Numbered with Transgressors")
* [Luke 23:33](/luke/23-33 "Luke 23:33 - Crucifixion with Malefactors")
* [2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 15:27 invites us to meditate on the profound humility and boundless love of Christ. Jesus, the Lord of glory, did not merely die for us; He died *as one of us*, taking our place among the condemned. His willingness to be numbered with the transgressors, to endure the ultimate shame and suffering, reveals the radical extent of His identification with humanity's sin and His commitment to our redemption. This scene challenges us to confront the depth of our own sin that necessitated such a sacrifice and to embrace the incredible grace offered through it. It reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of His mercy, as evidenced by the penitent thief's salvation even in his final moments. Our response should be one of humble gratitude, a willingness to follow Him, and a commitment to live lives that reflect the transforming power of His sacrifice.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' placement between two criminals deepen your understanding of His humility and identification with humanity's sin?**
* **What does this verse teach us about the nature of God's love and justice?**
* **In what ways does this scene challenge our perceptions of honor and shame, especially in light of the world's values?**
* **How might reflecting on Jesus being "numbered with the transgressors" impact your own sense of worth or your approach to those society condemns?**

### FAQ

**Who were the "thieves" crucified with Jesus, and what does their presence signify?**

Answer: The Greek word used, _lēistḗs_ (G3027), translated as "thieves," often referred to more than common robbers. It could denote violent criminals, brigands, or even insurrectionists and rebels against Roman authority. This suggests that the two men crucified with Jesus were likely serious offenders, perhaps even part of a violent anti-Roman movement. Their presence signifies the Roman authorities' deliberate attempt to portray Jesus as a dangerous insurgent and to further disgrace Him by associating Him with the lowest class of criminals. From a theological perspective, their presence serves to fulfill prophecy (e.g., [Isaiah 53:12](/isaiah/53-12 "Isaiah 53:12 - Numbered with the Transgressors")) and highlights Jesus' profound identification with sinners, as He, though innocent, was counted among the guilty.

**Why was Jesus specifically crucified between these two criminals, one on His right and one on His left?**

Answer: The specific placement of Jesus between the two criminals was a deliberate act by the Roman authorities to maximize His humiliation and public disgrace. Crucifixion was a public spectacle, and placing Him in the middle, flanked by two notorious offenders, further emphasized His perceived criminality. In ancient cultures, the "right hand" was often a place of honor or authority, making the placement of a criminal there particularly ironic and demeaning for Jesus. The "left hand" was often associated with lesser status. This arrangement visually underscored that Jesus was being treated as the chief among criminals, despite His innocence. Theologically, this arrangement powerfully illustrates Jesus' substitutionary atonement, where He, the sinless one, took the place of sinners, enduring the ultimate shame and judgment on their behalf, as foretold in passages like [Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 15:27 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus' complete identification with humanity's sin and His role as the ultimate atoning sacrifice. By being crucified between two criminals, Jesus literally became "numbered with the transgressors," a direct fulfillment of the prophecy in [Isaiah 53:12](/isaiah/53-12 "Isaiah 53:12 - The Suffering Servant Numbered with Transgressors"). This ignominious placement was not a random act but a divinely orchestrated moment demonstrating that the sinless Son of God willingly took the place of the guilty. He who knew no sin became sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). The cross, with Jesus at its center flanked by criminals, vividly portrays the substitutionary nature of His death, where He bore the full weight of God's wrath against sin, allowing those who believe in Him to receive forgiveness and new life. This scene is the very heart of the Gospel, revealing that Jesus' suffering was not merely an act of martyrdom but a redemptive act of cosmic proportions, purchasing salvation for all who would turn to Him, even as He extended grace to the penitent thief at His side ([Luke 23:39-43](/luke/23-39-43 "Luke 23:39-43 - The Penitent Thief")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 23:32

¶ And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death.

Luke 23:33

And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.

Matthew 27:38

Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.

John 19:18

Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst.